Calling the Potomac River an important US waterway, do not exaggerate. Indeed, Washington rises above its northern coast, the main city of a huge state, its majestic capital. Washington occupied both banks of the waterway in its lower reaches. Small ships rise to the city along the river surface.
The river itself, including the South Potomac and the estuary, stretches along the eastern expanses of North America for 780 kilometers. The picturesque Potomac River in Washington has a pool of 38.1 thousand km². In the ranking of Atlantic rivers by the size of the basin, she got fourth place. And according to statistics from all US rivers, she was given only 21st place.
Geography of the Potomac
In the state of Maryland, near the town of Cumberland, the North and South Potomacs merge into a single water stream. As a result of this merger, the Potomac River was formed - the main artery of Washington. The source of the northern arm is in West Virginia, next to the Fairfax Stone. The course of this sleeve is directed to the northeast. The southern arm begins near the village of Hightown, in Virginia. It flows also in a northeast direction.
After the confluence of the arms, the Potomac River, whose photo is magnificent, is sent to the southeast. It flows in this direction until it flows into the Chesapeake Bay, which is part of the Atlantic. The Potomac plays the role of the border between Maryland and Virginia. This aquatic artery is navigable. Vessels ply it between the Great Falls and the mouth.
Historical facts
Potomac - that was the name of the Indian tribe, who chose the southern coast of the river for refuge. It is believed that the word potomac translates as "trading place" or "place of collection of tribute." The Indians had their own name for the river, they named it Cohongarooton. Translated, it sounds like a "goose river."
In 1570, the Potomac River was discovered by the Spaniards. Description of the watershed was first made in 1608 by Captain John Smith. He put it on the map. Then merchants living in Virginia reached here. With the founding of Maryland, the Potomac turns into a key transport artery of the colony.
When a civil war erupted, water flow became the frontier for the Confederation of Southern States. General Robert Lee managed to cross the waterway twice, invading the northern lands.
The Potomac River (North America) formed about two million years ago as a result of lowering of the Atlantic Ocean and protruding coastal deposits. A water artery formed in the Great Falls region, the original relief of which was destroyed by glaciers.
In the Potomac region, many cultures have come together. The traditions of miners, boaters, and city dwellers from West and North Virginia are closely intertwined here.
Great waterfalls
A few millennia ago, Great Waterfalls formed on the river. The last two centuries, they are considered the main natural attraction in Washington. Great waterfalls have long been called a vast territory bordering the capital of the United States of America.
If we consider the administrative affiliation of the waterfalls, then they are the property of two neighboring states - Maryland and Virginia. They are located 22 kilometers from Washington. Get to them by taxi or metro.
The amazing miracle of nature is amazing with the beauty and power of the grandiose streams of crystal clear water. Even in the photo, the Great Waterfalls amaze with their grandeur. The beautiful Potomac River (or rather, its coast) is dotted with magnificent parks.
This scenic spot is popular with Americans and travelers. Adherents of outdoor activities flock here. Here, without surprise, you can meet fans of kayaking, rafting and climbing. They are dressed in comfortable and comfortable jeans, t-shirts and shoes.
Potomac - the heart of Washington
Calling Washington a magnificent city, they remember that it was built on the Potomac River. This watershed is not just a waterway, it is the heart of Washington. The history of the metropolis is inextricably linked with the name of the water artery.
The Potomac River became the place where in 1751 the port of Georgetown was erected, which became a dynamic point of trade and commerce. The trade zone developed, deliveries and transportation increased in volume. In 1790, Georgetown reached its peak, turning into the largest port of the state. Here, for example, exported and sold consignments of tobacco significantly exceeded the turnover of this product in other ports.
Environmental disaster
However, the Potomac had a chance to go through difficult periods. In 1894, the river was so polluted that the authorities imposed a ban on the swimming of people. Swimming in a dirty river could undermine the health of water buffs.
The stigma of environmental disruption has long plagued the watershed. After a major purification of the water artery in 1970, the Potomac River began to gain a positive reputation. North America, its environmentalists and volunteers won the battle to clear the waters of an important artery.
The watershed came to life as if born again. The purified waters breathed freely, letting in life flows. Currently, the greatness of the saved river is undeniable. Canoes, kayaks and rowing boats glide across the water. Blue herons and eagles returned here. And looking at this harmony, you begin to feel the soul of the river, called the heart of Washington.
Potomac: dynamic and peaceful
Architectural monuments rise above the coasts of the Potomac. They found a place for the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorial, the Kennedy Center and other attractions. Indigenous Washingtonians also like the other look of the watershed. That piece of it, where the luster of glass and the sparkling of concrete ends and the kingdom of riverbanks populated by light-winged birds and fish, shining with the gloss of scales, opens up. Here, the dynamics of the megalopolis comes to naught. Life seems to slow down, obeying the smooth flow of river waters.
